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Chances are the 49ers will not have defensive end Justin Smith for the playoffs. Triceps tears usually mean players are done for the season, as evidenced by linebacker Parys Haralson’s placement on injured reserve during training camp with that injury.

Smith’s triceps are only partially torn, nevertheless there’s a good chance we have seen the last of him for the rest of the season including playoffs.

The 49ers are now looking way down the list at receiver, with Mario Manningham (knee) joining Kyle Williams (knee) on injured reserve, a place where reserve running back Kendall Hunter (Achilles) already resides. Tight end Vernon Davis practiced on Thursday and may be ready to return from the concussion he sustained in Seattle.

However, the 49ers are beat up and with that in mind here are the top five players who will need to step up to replace those who are down.

5. PATRICK WILLIS: The impact of losing Justin Smith has been dramatic. Over the last six quarters, the 49ers’ defense have allowed 48 first downs, 753 yards and 66 points, according to esteemed colleague Eric Branch.

That coincides with the absence of defensive end Justin Smith. Willis might have to step up his game without him. “We’re going to have ups and downs, we’re going to have adversity. It’s how you handle it that makes you the team you are,” Willis said Wednesday.

4. RICKY JEAN FRANCOIS: He is the one who has to fill Smith’s gaping absence. Jean Francois’ night against the Seahawks looked bad, particularly after he was blocked on a 24-yard touchdown run by Marshawn Lynch. But Jean Francois was fairly stout after that. Where Jean Francois will be challenged is as a pass rusher.

3. A.J. JENKINS: The fleet-footed wide receiver has gotten eight snaps and no passes aimed his way, and that might have to change. The game was clearly too big for him when he first arrived for the off-season program and the start of training camp. He looked overwhelmed.

But later in the preseason, he settled in and his ability to seperate from defensive backs is undeniable.

2. RANDY MOSS: His stay with the 49ers so far has been somewhat baffling. He’s made some plays, scored some touchdowns, but nothing sustained. That Moss day of seven catches for 160 yards and two scores hasn’t been seen. Moss isn’t on the field enough for that to happen and a report before the season said Moss could only handle 20 to 25 plays a game. So far, the 49ers have basically stuck with that. Can Moss handle more?

1. LAMICHAEL JAMES: Of all the newcomers, James seems most able to add something explosive to the offense. He looks like a decent receiver and he could be valuable as an option in the slot.